2009 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · LR09 TPV

The most recent MOT test outcome for this 2009 Ford Fiesta is a pass dated 5 February 2026, achieved without any advisories or defects recorded. However, this pass should be viewed in context, as an identical date failure was issued the same day for several significant major defects, which were presumably rectified prior to re-test. The maintenance trend across the recorded DVSA history shows a pattern of repeat advisories rather than outright deterioration, but the recurrence of suspension-related wear items on both front and rear axle components, combined with the major exhaust and emissions failure in 2026, suggests that this vehicle is being maintained on a borderline basis. The fact that two of the last three tests included failure items, even if subsequently passed, indicates a vehicle that is accumulating age-related wear faster than it is being addressed proactively, and a buyer should treat the passing slip as a minimum compliance standard rather than evidence of sound mechanical condition. The recorded mileage of 136,208 against a 17-year vehicle age equates to approximately 8,012 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a car of this vintage in the UK. The MOT records show broadly consistent annual mileage accumulation without any substantial gaps that would suggest extended periods of standing, which is positive from a corrosion-from-idle perspective. At this mileage and age, however, wear on consumable and structural items is inevitable, and the recorded advisories for coil spring corrosion, track rod end play, suspension arm ball joint wear, and brake disc pitting all align with the expected degradation profile of a Fiesta that has covered a high lifetime mileage on typically British road surfaces. The drivetrain, clutch, gearbox, and engine management components are now operating well beyond the manufacturer design life for many components, and prospective buyers should assume that major service items such as cambelt replacement, clutch actuation, and cooling system renewal have either recently been carried out or are imminent. Examining the specific defect history in more detail, the most recent failure items are the most pertinent starting point for inspection. The offside front track rod end ball joint with excessive play is a steering component failure that would manifest as knocking or clonking noises from the front suspension over uneven road surfaces, vague or wandering steering response, and uneven tyre wear particularly on the outside shoulder of the nearside front tyre. The offside rear coil spring corrosion advisory appearing on three consecutive tests is a structural concern; corroded coil springs can fail catastrophically and drop the vehicle onto the tyre, and a buyer should physically inspect the springs for any visible cracking, flaking, or distortion of the spring coils. The exhaust silencer insecurity and minor exhaust gas leak advisories point to deteriorating system integrity, and on inspection one should listen for any ticking or hissing under load, check for black soot deposits at joints, and ensure the system is supported by intact rubber mountings. Beyond the MOT-recorded items, a test drive should focus on confirming the effectiveness of repairs claimed to have addressed the recent failures, paying particular attention to steering precision, front suspension response over bumps, and any warning lights relating to emissions or engine management. The brake disc pitting advisories from 2023 should be monitored for brake shudder under heavy braking or any grinding sensation indicating pad wear, and a physical inspection of disc surfaces for lipping and corrosion around the hub area is worthwhile given the tendency of lightly-used vehicles to develop surface rust. Tyres should be examined closely for age-related sidewall cracking and perishing regardless of remaining tread depth, as rubber compounds degrade over time, and any tyre over six years old should prompt replacement. Finally, age-related items not visible on an MOT should be checked: verify the 12V battery condition and load test result, confirm the cambelt and water pump replacement history with supporting invoices, ensure brake fluid and coolant have been changed within their recommended intervals, and inspect the underside for any fluid leaks, corrosion to floor pans, or perished suspension bushes which are typical wear items on a Fiesta of this age and mileage.